Shipwreck Report: ALLIANCE

Identification & Site Information

•Wreck Name: ALLIANCE

•Vessel Type: Wooden Sidewheel Steamer (Ferry)

•Build Date: 1857

•Builder: Bidwell & J.W. Banta, Buffalo, New York

•Dimensions:

•Length: 87 feet (26.5 meters)

•Beam: 16.1 feet (4.9 meters)

•Depth: 6.1 feet (1.9 meters)

•Gross Tonnage: 85 tons (increased to 107 tons after 1865 Rebuild)

•Final Disposition Date: November 21, 1869

•Location of Wreck: Niagara River at Lower Black Rock, presumed lost over Niagara Falls

•Coordinates: Final location presumed near Buffalo, New York, Lake Erie

•Depth at Wreck Site: Not specified; presumed destroyed

•Condition: Presumed destroyed after going over Niagara Falls

•Owner at Time of Loss: Henry Thornton

Vessel Type Description

The ALLIANCE was a wooden Sidewheel Steamer designed for Ferry service. With its compact size and sidewheel propulsion, it was ideal for navigating the relatively narrow and calm waters of the Niagara River and Lake Erie. Known for its comfort and reliability, the vessel was outfitted with cushioned seats and carpeted floors, making it a popular choice for passenger transport.

History

The ALLIANCE began service in 1857 as a Ferry operating between Black Rock and Fort Erie, providing critical transportation across the Niagara River. Originally owned by Absalom Bull and later James Haggart, the vessel underwent a significant Rebuild in 1865, which increased its tonnage and improved its passenger accommodations.

By 1868, the ALLIANCE was operating in the Buffalo District under the ownership of Henry Thornton. The Steamer was a vital link for local transportation and commerce, ferrying passengers and goods between key locations on Lake Erie and the Niagara River.

On November 21, 1869, tragedy struck when the ALLIANCE broke free from its moorings at Lower Black Rock during what may have been an act of neglect or vandalism. The vessel drifted downstream and is believed to have gone over Niagara Falls, leading to its presumed destruction. Despite the dramatic circumstances, no lives were lost in the incident.

Final Disposition

The ALLIANCE was presumed destroyed after plunging over Niagara Falls. The vessel’s registry was officially surrendered on March 31, 1869, marking the end of its operational history. Any remnants of the vessel would have been subjected to severe damage from the falls’ force and have not been documented or recovered.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The condition of the wreck is unknown due to its presumed destruction over Niagara Falls. No substantial wreckage has been identified, and the site is not considered accessible for diving or exploration.

Resources & Links

•Maritime History of the Great Lakes: Comprehensive database of Great Lakes vessels and shipwrecks.

•David Swayze Shipwreck File: Archival records of the ALLIANCE and other wrecks.

•Great Lakes Ships Database: Information on vessel specifications and historical service.

Conclusion

The ALLIANCE is a dramatic example of the challenges and dangers faced by vessels navigating the Great Lakes and Niagara River in the 19th century. Its sudden and catastrophic loss over Niagara Falls underscores the vulnerability of even well-built and maintained vessels in the face of natural and human-induced hazards. Though its wreckage is lost to history, the story of the ALLIANCE remains an integral part of Great Lakes maritime lore, highlighting the region’s rich and sometimes tragic nautical past.

Tags

#GreatLakes #Shipwrecks #NiagaraFalls #LakeErie #MaritimeHistory #SidewheelSteamer #Alliance #HistoricalShipwreck #Ferry